03/07/2025
🧡 Frazzled to Calmness – Kerry & Mabel’s Journey
Kerry reached out when Mabel was just 9 weeks old. The first few days hadn’t gone as expected. As I listened to what had been happening, it was clear those early moments of puppy life had hit hard—exhaustion, sleepless nights, and the constant worry of doing it all wrong.
Mabel, full of youthful energy seemed to need watching every second. She was nipping at Kerry’s ankles (“those teeth really hurt!”) and never seemed to settle. The idea of enjoying life with a calm, happy dog felt very far away.
Feeling Drained and Unsure
Kerry had reached out because getting a new puppy can feel overwhelming—especially when it’s your first. She’d reached what many puppy guardians recognise as breaking point—scrolling the internet late at night, searching for answers that never quite fit.
Booking a call with me wasn’t just about training; it was about being seen, heard, and supported. My role wasn’t just to help Mabel—it was to reassure Kerry that she wasn’t alone, and that it’s completely okay to feel overwhelmed in those early weeks.
First Steps Towards Calm
We began with the simplest of steps to help both Kerry and Mabel find their feet. First, we built Kerry’s confidence in using the crate—hello, sleep!—and introduced fun, low-pressure foundation games to help mentally tire Mabel in a positive way. We also worked on helping Mabel feel safe and relaxed around her harness, which she had initially run away from, and set up daily routines that fit around Kerry’s work schedule. Alongside this, we added gentle enrichment activities and cues that helped build connection and trust. The early goals were simple but powerful: to help Mabel settle, reduce her overexcitement, and support her in learning to walk calmly on the lead & reliable recall.
Today…
Mabel has grown into the puppy of Kerry’s dreams—a happy, relaxed part of the family. Kerry now has the tools to support her in ways that feel empowering, not exhausting. They’ve gone from desperation to joy—and it all began with knowing that you don’t have to do this alone.
From Kerry:
“Getting our first puppy this year was very exciting but also very daunting. There’s so much to learn, and Sarah supported us throughout with her bountiful advice and knowledge, training sessions, and always being available when needed.
Before we started, I honestly didn’t know how I was going to navigate having such a lively and demanding puppy! Sarah’s guidance has been fundamental—not just for Mabel, but for me. From building routines, understanding behaviours, learning cues and enrichment, to walks and the outdoor world—it’s been invaluable.
I had forgotten what it was like to take a shower without a puppy waiting outside the door!
Mabel is now a well-adapted, amazing part of our family. I cannot imagine life without her.”
Sounds Familiar
Feeling like those puppy days aren’t what you expected? You’re not alone. Mabel’s journey is proof that support, structure, and kindness can change everything. Send me a message if you would like my support.
